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Donald Trump’s most recent threat to introduce an additional full import duty on products from China has been described as a “prime illustration” of US double standards, as stated by the China’s leadership.

A representative of the ministry further commented that Beijing could introduce its own undisclosed “countermeasures” if the US President carries out his warning, noting that the country was “not afraid” of a possible trade conflict.

On Friday, Trump retaliated at the Chinese government’s action to tighten its rules for foreign shipments of rare earth minerals, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the global community “captive”.

Furthermore, he threatened to pull out of a arranged meeting with China’s President Xi, which was arranged for a conference in the Republic of Korea later this month.

Trump’s comments on last Friday shook stock exchanges, with the S&P 500 share index falling by 2.7%, marking its largest decline since April.

The president’s words reignited concerns of a trade war between the two economic giants.

This past spring, the two sides had consented to eliminate triple-digit tariffs on each other’s goods, which had led to concerns of trade halting between the two countries.

Consequently, United States levies on products from China incurring an added 30% levy compared with the start of the year, while items from the United States entering the country incur a import levy.

The most recent comments from China – released by the Ministry of Commerce in the manner of formal replies to press queries – mirrored rhetoric from the height of the recent trade conflict.

The remarks condemned United States controls on semiconductors and chips while supporting Beijing’s export controls on rare earth minerals as “routine measures” to protect domestic safety and that of the global community.

Their representative remarked that for “a long time”, the America had “overstretched the concept of national security, abused overseas sale restrictions and “adopted unfair treatments against the Chinese nation.

“Resorting to trade levy ultimatums is not the proper method to deal with the Chinese government,” the spokesperson said.

“Beijing’s stance” on a trade conflict has consistently been unchanging: we are not seeking one, but we are fearless of one.”

Last week, China declared it was reinforcing foreign shipment restrictions on key elements and other materials critical for advanced tech manufacturing.

The action was viewed as a important measure, as the country processes about ninety percent of the global rare earth supply, which are utilized in products such as renewable energy components and smartphones.

The recent comments from both governments are being interpreted by observers as a method of bolstering negotiating stances ahead of upcoming negotiations.

It is unclear whether a meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected at a conference in Seoul later this month, will take place as planned.